It was a night that many will hold close to their hearts. The Philippine Nurses Association of Oman, Inc. (PNAO) officially launched its foreign-based chapter with an unforgettable Meet and Greet and Launching Ceremony held at the Centara Hotel, Muscat. More than just an event, it was a celebration of unity, identity, and a hopeful future for Filipino nurses in the Sultanate.
A total of 110 guests filled the venue—66 of whom were proud Filipino registered nurses (RNs), while the rest were partners, supporters, and stakeholders who have stood alongside the Filipino nursing community in Oman. Their presence was a strong show of support and solidarity for what PNAO stands for.
The event kicked off with a warm registration experience where guests were handed personalized name tag stickers—small touches that sparked immediate conversations and connections. The atmosphere in the meet-and-greet hall was festive and welcoming. Guests had fun at the photobooth and left heartfelt messages on the signature board, creating a space filled with laughter, selfies, and a sense of belonging.
As the main doors opened, waves of attendees came in—Filipino nurses dressed proudly, alongside representatives from various organizations including OWWA, MWO, FILCOSOC, Oman Nursing Association (ONA), Oman Cancer Association (OCA), FMHAO, Philippine School Oman, and Vanguard SAVES Oman. Their support signaled that PNAO is not alone in its mission.
A special moment of the evening was the arrival of His Excellency Ambassador Raul S. Hernandez and his wife, Madam Ana A. Hernandez, accompanied by embassy officials. Their presence added honor to the occasion and reminded everyone how valued Filipino nurses are in both local and international spaces.
While waiting for the formal program, the room buzzed with social interactions, photo ops, and new friendships forming. The formalities began with Christian and Muslim invocations, followed by the national anthems of Oman and the Philippines—a reminder that respect and unity go hand in hand.
The program hosts—Jane, Rose, and Camillus—set the tone with cheerful energy and warm greetings. Ms. Jo-Ann Tubo, PNAO Vice President for Programs and Development, welcomed everyone with heartfelt words, followed by a touching opening message from Mr. Irwin Rio, Vice President for Finance.
In his keynote, Ambassador Hernandez applauded the Filipino nurses as modern-day heroes and congratulated PNAO for achieving such a significant milestone. His message inspired the audience to continue striving for excellence.
A meaningful AVP presented the journey of PNAO—from its roots to the efforts of its founding team. It was followed by surprise messages from PNA overseas chapter presidents from Canada, the US, Bahrain, and UAE, along with inspiring notes from Dr. Quimen and Dr. Dr. Grace Belo-Delariarte of PNA National. The messages brought smiles, pride, and tears of joy.
One of the most emotional parts of the evening was the Candle Lighting and Pinning Ceremony. Led by Ms. Michelle Aquino as Florence Nightingale carrying a symbolic lamp, Filipino nurses walked with candles down the aisle and received their commemorative PNAO pins. One nurse said, “It brought me back to my pinning ceremony—it made me feel recognized and proud all over again.”
After a short coffee and biscuit break, the evening continued with the distribution of official membership ID cards by Mr. Marco Larena, PNAO Founding President, and Ms. Tubo. Officers were also honored with garlands, while Ms. Josephine Legaspi and Mr. Ernesto Espinosa Jr. led the awarding of Certificates of Appreciation to partner organizations.
The room lit up again with energy when dance group Unicrew hit the stage, drawing cheers and smiles. Fun games followed—including a nursing jumbled word challenge and a thrilling raffle draw where winners had to answer a surprise phone call within five seconds. Even Ambassador Hernandez gamely joined in, winning a prize during the “Sticker Hunt”!
Important organizational updates were shared next. Mr. Mark Galang presented PNAO’s By-Laws, and Ms. Michelle Aquino discussed member engagement initiatives. Mr. Marco Larena took the stage to share “The Future of PNAO,” a roadmap of exciting plans ahead—CPD accreditation, SPLE facilitation for aspiring PRC nurses, a “Balik-Loob” program for RNs with career gaps, recognition awards, and expanded outreach programs. He reminded everyone: “This is just the beginning. PNAO’s future depends on all of us—nurses, partners, and supporters alike.”
The evening was capped by a powerful Same Day Edit video by Mr. Rheyan Lugtu, capturing all the best moments of the celebration. It brought everyone to their feet—with applause, laughter, and quiet reflection on just how far the community has come.
Finally, everyone gathered for a delightful dinner—sharing stories, dreams, and promises of continued support. The room was filled with a renewed sense of purpose and connection.
The PNAO Launching and Meet & Greet wasn’t just an event. It was a movement. It reminded every Filipino nurse in Oman that they belong to something greater—an association committed to lifting each other up, advocating for excellence, and building a legacy together.
With the continued support of the Philippine Embassy, OWWA, MWO, and dedicated partner organizations, PNAO is ready to lead forward with compassion, integrity, and pride.
Mabuhay ang PNAO. Mabuhay ang Filipino nurses. The journey has just begun—and it’s already something beautiful.
